PremiumSoft had been a competitive player in the SQL software market for 10 years. Like many software companies, PremiumSoft's business model required that it continuously evolve its current successful product lines through research and development. At the core of the business was its creative people: they were the company's largest asset. PremiumSoft had created a team-centric, informal work environment that promoted creativity, innovation and attracted the best candidates. As a small company, PremiumSoft had a mix of formal and informal controls when dealing with recruiting, retention, roles and responsibilities. It had achieved success with hiring, retaining and managing its current employees, and wanted to ensure that it could maintain this success with future growth.

In 2010, PremiumSoft¡¦s owners were looking to grow the business through the development of new software. This growth required an expansion of its staff by 25% and the addition of a new product line.

Students can use this case to explore the management of growing human resources needs, including recruiting and retaining the right people, maintaining proper controls on quality and production, and creating an environment that fosters innovation and creativity.1.)Provide students with an understanding of human resource challenges that small businesses face. 2.)Explore the challenges of managing staff in a creative work environment. 3.)Explore HR control systems and their implementation